Health Library

Calcifediol capsules

What are calcifediol capsules?

CALCIFEDIOL (Calderol®) is a man-made form of vitamin D. Vitamin D is necessary to maintain the right amount of calcium in the body for strong bones and teeth. Calcifediol helps your body keep the proper levels of calcium and phosphorus and maintain healthy bones. Generc calcifediol capsules are not yet available.

What should my health care professional know before I take calcifediol?

They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:

kidney disease

too much calcium or vitamin D in the blood

parathyroid disease

other chronic illness

an unusual or allergic reaction to vitamin D, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

pregnant or trying to get pregnant

breast-feeding

How should I take this medicine?

Take calcifediol capsules by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the capsules with a drink of water. Take exactly as directed. Do not exceed the prescribed dose because calcifediol is stored in the body.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with calcifediol?

cholestyramine

colestipol

digoxin

ketoconazole

orlistat

mineral oil

seizure (convulsion) or epilepsy medicine

water pills

Talk to your prescriber or other health care professional before taking any of these medicines:

antacids

calcium supplements

magnesium supplements

vitamin D

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking calcifediol?

Visit your prescriber or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. You may need a special diet and to take calcium supplements.

Do not take any non-prescription medicines that contain vitamin D, phosphorus, magnesium, or calcium including antacids while taking caldifediol, unless your prescriber or health care professional says you can. The extra calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, or vitamin D can lead to side effects. Do not take more calcium, magnesium, or vitamin D than your prescriber or health care professional recommends.

What side effects may I notice from taking calcifediol?

The recommended daily allowance of calcifediol does not usually cause any side effects.

Early side effects related to overdose include:

bone pain

constipation

dry mouth

headache

metallic taste

nausea, vomiting

unusual tiredness, or weakness

Late side effects include:

increased thirst

increase in the need to pass urine (especially at night)

irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure

loss of appetite

seizures (convulsions)

stomach pain

weight loss

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.